Life Insurance for Substance Abuse
Over 100 Carriers to Quote From. Here are a few of them!
At Diversified Insurance Brokers, we specialize in helping clients with a history of substance abuse secure life insurance coverage. With access to over 100 top-rated carriers and decades of underwriting expertise, we know how to position your case for the best possible outcome. Whether your history involves alcohol, prescription medication misuse, or illicit drugs, we understand the unique challenges and work to match you with insurers most likely to approve your application at competitive rates.
Life Insurance with History of Substance Abuse
If you’ve had a history of substance abuse, it doesn’t mean you’re uninsurable. At Diversified Insurance Brokers, we specialize in helping clients with substance use history obtain affordable, personalized life insurance coverage.
Speak with an expert who understands finding life insurance options for individuals with substance abuse history.
How Substance Abuse Impacts Life Insurance Underwriting
Life insurance companies evaluate applicants with a history of substance abuse carefully, looking at factors such as:
- Type of Substance: Alcohol, prescription medication, or illicit drug use.
- Length of Sobriety: Many carriers require a minimum of 2–5 years of documented sobriety for favorable rates.
- Treatment History: Inpatient, outpatient, counseling, or rehabilitation programs.
- Medical Complications: Liver disease, heart issues, or other conditions linked to past substance use.
- Legal History: Any DUIs, arrests, or other substance-related legal issues.
Who This Coverage Is Best For
- Individuals in recovery with several years of sobriety.
- Applicants who have completed a treatment program and maintained stability.
- People recently declined by other insurers due to substance abuse history.
- Anyone looking to protect their family’s financial future despite a challenging past.
Typical Life Insurance Outcomes for Substance Abuse History
- Long-term sobriety with no related health issues: May qualify for Standard or better rates.
- Moderate sobriety period (2–4 years): Often approved with a table rating.
- Recent treatment or relapse: Coverage may be available after a set waiting period.
Every case is unique—our role is to match your situation with the carrier most likely to say “yes.”
Why Work With Diversified Insurance Brokers
- Access to 100+ A-rated carriers: Giving you more opportunities for approval and better rates.
- High-risk life insurance expertise: We know which companies are the most understanding of recovery cases.
- Confidential and respectful process: Your personal history is treated with discretion.
- Custom coverage options: Term, whole, and universal life plans to fit your needs.
Example Case
A 45-year-old applicant with a past history of opioid addiction, sober for 7 years and in ongoing counseling, had been turned down by multiple carriers. We identified an insurer experienced with recovery cases and secured them a $250,000 20-year term policy at a Standard rate—saving over $600 per year compared to prior quotes.
Take the first step: Complete our secure substance abuse life insurance request form and let us find the best coverage for you.
FAQs: Life Insurance for Substance Abuse
Can I get life insurance after a history of substance abuse?
Yes. A history of substance abuse doesn’t automatically disqualify you. Many carriers will consider applications, especially when sobriety, treatment history, and overall health are well documented.
How long do I need to be sober before applying?
Carriers often look for **2 to 5 years** of documented sobriety for more favorable rates. Shorter periods may still qualify, but often with higher premiums or rating tables.
What types of substances are red flags?
Insurers typically consider alcohol misuse, prescription drug misuse, and illicit drug use. The kind of substance, quantity/frequency of use, and related complications all influence risk assessment.
How does the treatment history affect my chances?
Having formal treatment—such as counseling, rehab, and consistent follow-ups—helps show evidence of recovery. Carriers like to see stability, no recent relapses, and good health post-treatment.
Will health complications tied to substance abuse hurt my application?
Yes. Conditions like liver damage, heart disease, or mental health issues resulting from substance use increase underwriting risk and may lead to higher premiums or require additional medical exam or records.
Do legal issues (e.g., DUIs, arrests) affect eligibility?
They often do. Legal history such as DUIs or arrests related to substance abuse can impact rates or cause stricter underwriting. Full disclosure and good documentation help mitigate negative effects.
What kinds of policies are available?
Term, permanent, and universal life policies are often possible. Some simplified-issue or high-risk life insurance options may be available depending on your health, sobriety history, and carrier’s underwriting rules.
What premium outcomes should I expect?
• Long-term sobriety and good health → possibly standard or near-standard rates.
• Moderate sobriety period (2-4 years) → likely table ratings or extra loading.
• Recent treatment or relapse → may face waiting periods or limited options (simplified or graded-benefit policies).
What can I do to improve my approval odds?
Document your sobriety with medical or treatment records, maintain regular follow-ups, avoid recent relapses or DUIs, result in good overall health, and work with carriers experienced in recovery underwriting.
What if I was declined before because of substance abuse?
A prior decline doesn’t always mean no options. Different insurers have different guidelines. With improved documentation, longer sobriety, and a clean medical history, you may qualify now.
